Press Release Back Number(2004)

Obtaining permission to install the first experimental fast power-line carrier communication (fast PLC) facilities in the Tokai region and to start field testing of the technology for reducing the leakage electric field

May 26, 2004

Today, Chubu Electric Power obtained permission from the Tokai Bureau of Telecommunications, Ministry of Public Management, Home Affairs, Posts, and Telecommunications for installation of the first experimental fast power-line carrier communication (hereinafter referred to as "fast PLC")*1 facilities in the Tokai region. We will start field testing today, using the fast PLC facilities installed in our Human Resources Development Center.

*1 Fast power-line communication (PLC) is a communications technology in which high-frequency signals (2 to 30 MHz) are superimposed on existing distribution lines and power lines within a household.

Fast PLC, which effectively uses existing power lines, requires no new communication cables to be laid and is expected to contribute to the economical establishment of indoor LANs and fast Internet access lines (refer to the attached sheet).

However, if fast PLC is to be put to practical use, it is essential to develop technologies that prevent it interfering with existing wireless communications. We have been conducting research on fast PLC for approximately three years, and can now see a way for the technology to reduce the leakage electric field*2 from power lines.

*2 A leakage electric field is an electric field produced secondarily when high-frequency signals are superimposed on power lines. There is a risk of it interfering with existing broadcasts and communications.

In addition, the January 2004 revision of the Radio Law Implementation Regulations paved the way for the allowance of tests using fast PLC facilities with the sole aim of verification of technology for reducing the leakage electric field. We then applied for permission to install the fast PLC facilities.

We plan to conduct field tests in various environments, including our dormitories for single employees and company houses, as well as our Human Resources Development Center.